Vehicle Badge Illumination via Photoluminescent Light Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle lighting systems lack innovative solutions for creating visually appealing and efficient illumination using photoluminescent structures that can effectively convert excitation light into visible light for automotive applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of an illuminated badge for vehicles that incorporates a substrate, a light source, an optic, and a reflective member, along with photoluminescent structures that convert excitation light into visible light, utilizing energy conversion layers with photoluminescent materials to achieve multicolor illumination and long persistence lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If photoluminescent structures are used to convert excitation light into visible light, then illumination intensity and visual appeal are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components (light source, optic, reflective member, photoluminescent structures)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional components (light source, optic, reflective member, and photoluminescent structures) into a single integrated badge assembly. The housing integrates the light source and optic, while the reflective member is positioned within the same structure, creating a compact illuminated badge system that achieves complex lighting effects without requiring separate discrete components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The badge is divided into distinct functional zones: an excitation light generation area, an optic for light direction, a reflective member for light redirection, and photoluminescent structures for light conversion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a cohesive system to achieve superior illumination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple photoluminescent structures are used to achieve multicolor illumination, then versatility and visual appeal are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different photoluminescent structures with specific color-conversion properties are positioned at different locations within the badge. Each photoluminescent material is selected and placed to achieve specific color effects in specific areas, allowing the badge to display multiple colors simultaneously while maintaining manageable manufacturing tolerances through localized optimization.
3Productivity
If a reflective member is added to direct excitation light toward photoluminescent structures, then illumination efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective member is integrated within the badge housing structure, combining the light-redirection function with the existing badge geometry. This integration allows the reflective surface to be part of the overall badge assembly rather than a separate add-on component, improving illumination efficiency while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a visually appealing and efficient illumination system that enhances vehicle styling while offering long-lasting light emission, even after the excitation source is removed, through the use of photoluminescent materials that convert excitation light into visible light, providing sustained illumination.
Implementation Method 1
A first photoluminescent structure is disposed within the optic that is configured to emit a first converted light in response to receiving the excitation light
Implementation Method 2
A second photoluminescent structure is excited by the excitation light that is reflected off of the reflective member
Implementation Method 3
A first portion of an excitation light emitted from the light source is directed through the optic toward a first portion of the viewable portion
Data Source
AI summary
A badge is provided herein. The badge includes a substrate attached to a housing. The housing includes a viewable portion. A light source is operably coupled with an optic. A reflective member is further disposed within the badge. A first portion of an excitation light emitted from the light source is directed through the optic toward a first portion of the viewable portion. A second portion of the excitation light is reflected by the reflective member towards a second portion of the viewable portion.